In the heart of Oldham, where the vibrant nightlife and the hum of everyday life collide, a beacon of hope and kindness shines brightly: the Oldham Street Angels. This remarkable initiative stands as a testament to the power of community spirit and the difference that compassion can make in people's lives.
Above: The team at Oldham Street Angels
Who Are the Oldham Street Angels?
The Oldham Street Angels are a dedicated team of volunteers committed to providing support and care to individuals who find themselves in vulnerable situations during the night. Founded with the aim of creating a safer, more supportive environment for those out on the town, these unsung heroes offer a range of services, from first aid and emotional support to practical help such as providing water and blankets.
At its core, the Oldham Street Angels initiative is driven by a simple yet profound mission: to help people in their time of need.
Oldham Street Angels recently purchased a defibrillator and have the device stored at their premises in the event of a Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA).
Above: The team are proud to have a defibrillator on site
Their work extends beyond immediate assistance; they also aim to foster a sense of community and reduce the potential for harm. By being a visible, approachable presence on the streets, the Street Angels contribute to a more positive and supportive atmosphere in Oldham’s nightlife scene.
Why Do We Need Defibrillators?
Defibrillators are medical devices used to treat life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation (VF) and pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT). Without prompt medical intervention such as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation, SCA is fatal within minutes - every minute that passes without treatment, survival rates drop by 10%.
Time is essential during SCA
Every second counts when someone suffers a SCA, making timing a crucial factor in the chain of survival.
Administering CPR promptly is vital to sustaining blood circulation and oxygenation to the body's organs, particularly the brain. This underscores the critical importance of bystander CPR in increasing the likelihood of survival until professional help arrives.
The use of a defibrillator significantly improves survival rates. If defibrillation is administered within 3-5 minutes of a SCA, it will increase survival chances from 6% to 74%.
Why It Matters
The impact of the Oldham Street Angels extends far beyond the immediate aid they provide. Their work helps to create a safer, more inclusive environment for everyone. By offering support and care, they help to prevent situations from escalating and contribute to a more positive community spirit.
The initiative serves as an example of how grassroots efforts can make a significant difference. The dedication of these volunteers highlights the importance of community engagement and the profound effects of small acts of kindness.
The Oldham Street Angels are always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in their community. If you’re interested in volunteering, there are several ways to get involved. Whether you’re interested in direct support roles or helping with behind-the-scenes tasks, there’s a place for you in their incredible team.
Additionally, donations and sponsorships are vital for the ongoing success of the initiative. Supporting the Oldham Street Angels financially or through in-kind contributions helps ensure they can continue their vital work.
Above: The Oldham Street Angels hard at work
In a world where the headlines often focus on the negatives, the Oldham Street Angels remind us of the power of community and the impact of compassion. Their tireless efforts and selfless service make Oldham a better place for everyone, proving that even the smallest gestures of kindness can have a profound effect.
As we move forward, we celebrate and support initiatives like the Oldham Street Angels, and remember that we all have the potential to be a beacon of hope in our own communities.
We will continue to support Karla and the team at Oldham Street Angels with all their defibrillator supplies and knowledgeable needs.
To donate to Oldham Street Angels please click here
Got a story for us? contact one of the team today on 0161 776 7422.
